Teagasc to advise 50,000 on forms

THE deadline for farmers to submit their Single Farm Payment application form to the Department of Agriculture and Food is fast approaching.

Director of Teagasc Advisory Services, Pat Boyle, said that its advisers in every office around the country are busy assisting farmers with their forms to ensure costly mistakes are avoided.

“Given the importance of this task and the upcoming deadline of May 15, this work is currently a priority for all Teagasc advisers,” he said.

Last year Teagasc assisted a record 44,000 farmers to establish their entitlements and receive their Single Farm Payment. This year it is expected its advisers will assist up to 50,000 farmers.

“We are urging farmers to make an appointment with their adviser as soon as possible, particularly sugar beet growers where subsidy entitlements are being established for the first time, and individuals who are farming a different land area to 2005,” he said.

Mr Boyle said single farm payment appointments have also given clients the chance to discuss the Options programme with their adviser, who can assist them in future planning.

Teagasc advisers have observed an increased demand for their services in relation to REPS 3 and the farm waste management scheme, with demand for both expected to increase dramatically.

Farmers interested in either scheme are asked to contact their Teagasc office without delay, as the service may not have the capacity to service new clients later in the year.